Types of Techniques Used in Massage Therapy

Massage therapy is an ancient alternative medicine dating back to 3,000 BCE in India. At the time, it was used by Hindus as a sacred form of natural healing in life health or Ayurveda. The knowledge and skill were passed down through generations to relieve pain, heal injuries, and cure or prevent illnesses. The Hindus believed that people become sick when their bodies are out of sync with the environment and nature. They saw massage therapy as a way to restore balance in the patient.

Fast forward to today and research shows that massage therapy has grown in knowledge and technique. Currently, this alternative medicine helps people deal with various conditions. According to research, massage helps not only your physical health but also your mental health. People dealing with stress from work can benefit from the therapy. Other than this, massage has numerous benefits.

 

So, what are some of the different techniques used in massage therapy? Read on to learn more.

 

Massage Techniques

To become a licensed masseuse, you must take courses that teach different techniques. Here are some various techniques utilized during massages:

Kneading

The technique requires using your palms and thumbs to apply pressure on different body parts. The technique aims to pull muscle away from the bone, reducing muscle spasms. The technical term for the technique is petrissage.

Effleurage

Easier known as light and deep stroking, this technique is also common in most spas and parlors. Unlike kneading, where you must use your thumbs and the palms of your hands, your hands must remain flat in this one.

Rubbing

Another common technique is rubbing, which utilizes the thumbs moving in a circular motion. It helps stimulate blood flow and circulation and treats joint and muscle pain.

Tapping or Tapotement

Tapping is a powerful and effective technique that helps improve blood flow. The technique is popular with athletes.

 

Popular Types of Massage Therapy

The techniques mentioned above are usually used in various types of massage. The most popular and effective ones are:

 

Swedish Massage

It is an excellent option for people who want a gentle touch, tension release, or are new to massage. It is a full-body massage popular for its gentle strokes. A Swedish massage is your best bet to relax or undo muscle knots.

Sports Massage

This massage is an excellent option to enhance athletic performance and increase flexibility. It also helps relieve muscle tension and pain and reduce anxiety. It is often recommended if you have muscle injury from repetitive use. Also, the massage can help you prevent future injuries if you are predisposed to injuries.

Deep Massage

This massage is an excellent choice if you have muscle problems. It uses more pressure to help with injury, tightness, soreness, imbalance, and chronic muscle pain. The masseuse uses deep finger pressure and slow strokes.

Trigger Point Massage

This is the massage for you if you have chronic pain, injuries, or a specific condition. It focuses on tight muscle areas that may cause pain in other areas. These tight masses of muscle are called trigger points.

For more on the types of techniques used in massage therapy, contact The Spine Clinic in Salem, Oregon at 503.362.5555.